Obituary of Charles "Chip" Harkola

Charles "Chip" Harkola, 60, of Syracuse passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, November 25. Born in Syracuse, he was a graduate of West Genesee High School. Chip was a dedicated employee of New Venture Gear for 30 years, where he formed many of his most cherished friendships. In times of need, Chip was always there to extend a helping hand, and his sage advice to many was to "always do what is best for you". As a sometimes quiet, yet brilliant man, Chip gave to us strength and unconditional love, while instilling in all of us a sense of how important family is. Chip enjoyed spending time on the golf course with his beloved wife and best friend Mary, and his son CJ. He loved leading family boating expeditions, and even sometimes catching fish on Oneida Lake. He always enjoyed and had much pride in his home, where the doors were always open to those that were lucky enough to knock. In quieter times, Chip took great pleasure in the feeding of a wide variety of colorful birds in his backyard. Survivors: his wife of 38 years, Mary (Kelly) Harkola and his son, Charles "CJ" Harkola. He was predeceased by his parents, Edith and "Chuck" Harkola and his brother John Harkola. Services: 9:30am Tuesday at Tindall Funeral Home and 10 am at Holy Family Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. The Rite of Committal and burial will follow in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, Marcellus. Calling hours will be 4 to 6 p.m. Monday at Tindall Funeral Home, 1921 W Genesee St, Syracuse. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675 or Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Rd., Baldwinsville, NY 13027.